Elderly people are vulnerable to diseases and they require a nutritious diet to compensate for the loss of vitality due to old age. Omega 3 benefits people across all ages and it can be especially beneficial for people who are aging. Omega 3 fatty acids benefit not only the heart but they are also crucial for the maintenance of the health of eyes and brain. Read on to know more about the benefits of omega 3 for the elderly.
What are Omega 3 Fatty Acids?
Omega 3 fatty acids are a kind of fat that is not naturally produced in our bodies. However, they are extremely vital for the maintenance of our health and the functioning of vital body parts. Omega-3 fatty acids are important building blocks for cell membranes of our body as they are present in each and every cellular membrane. These fatty acids reduce inflammation in the body and promote a healthy system.
Out of several types of omega 3 fatty acids, some of the most important ones for our body include:
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
- Alpha-Linolenic acid (ALA)
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
Benefits of Omega 3 for the Elderly
Some of the major omega 3 benefits for the elderly include:
1. Healthy Heart
Omega 3 fatty acids are very beneficial in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and keeping the heart functioning optimally. They are great for elderly people since they are at a greater risk for cardiovascular diseases. Omega 3 fatty acids reduce oxidative stress on the heart and thereby reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
2. Healthy Vision
One of the major risks faced by the elderly is the impaired vision with age. Omega 3 for older adults leads to the improvement of vision. Omega 3 is an important structural component of the retina of the eyes. Thus, it proves very beneficial in keeping the eyes healthy for the elderly.
3. Preventing Inflammation
The body faces more inflammation with age and omega 3 can help reduce this inflammation as it is an antioxidant. Antioxidants reduce inflammation by countering the inflammation caused by free radicals in the body.
4. Strong Bones & Joints
Omega 3 fatty acid benefits also include the management of Inflammatory Arthritis, a bone and joint disease prevalent among the elderly. Omega 3 fatty acids improve the flexibility of the joints affected by arthritis.
5. Mental Health
Being mentally healthy is important across all ages but many elderly people face the risk of cognitive disorders and mental health problems like Dementia. Omega 3 fatty acids can reduce the chances of mental disorders to a great extent as they help improve the functions of memory and cognition of the brain.
6. Healthy Respiratory System
Omega 3 fatty acids benefit the respiratory functions of the elderly too. Omega 3 acids may help resolve the inflammation, loosen the respiratory channels and ease breathing, especially for elderly people with respiratory disorders like asthma.
How Should the Elderly Consume Omega 3 Fatty Acids?
Omega 3 fatty acids can be consumed easily as part of the everyday diet. One of the richest sources of omega 3 fatty acids are fatty fish and dry fruits. Fatty fish like cod, salmon, and tuna can provide omega 3 fish oil benefits to the elderly.
Fish oil capsules are also a great way to make omega 3 fatty acids a part of the daily diet. One capsule a day is sufficient for the daily fish oil dosage for elderly people.
The Bottom Line
Elderly people can benefit immensely by including fish oil in their diet. Omega 3 benefits include the maintenance of heart health, vision, mental health, and respiratory function, among other things. Having fish oil capsules daily is the best way to include omega 3 fatty acids in the diet. It is easier for the elderly to have them and does not cause any problems to their eating habits either.
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Thank you for your info on omega 3 very helpful and useful.